Topical Encyclopedia Hatred, as depicted in the Bible, is a powerful and destructive emotion that can consume individuals and communities, leading to bitterness and strife. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the corrosive nature of hatred and its ability to embitter life.Biblical Definition and Context Hatred is often understood as an intense dislike or animosity towards others. In the biblical context, it is frequently associated with sin and moral failure. The Bible warns against harboring hatred in one's heart, as it stands in direct opposition to the love and forgiveness that God commands His followers to exhibit. Old Testament Insights The Old Testament provides several narratives and teachings that highlight the destructive power of hatred. In Genesis 37:4, the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrates how hatred can lead to severe consequences: "When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him." This animosity eventually led to Joseph being sold into slavery, demonstrating how hatred can fracture familial relationships and lead to grievous actions. Proverbs 10:12 offers wisdom on the matter: "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all transgressions." This proverb contrasts the divisive nature of hatred with the unifying power of love, emphasizing that hatred breeds conflict and discord. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to address the issue of hatred, urging believers to reject it in favor of love and reconciliation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus expands on the commandment against murder by addressing the root of such violence—hatred. Matthew 5:21-22 states, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder,’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment." The Apostle John further elaborates on the incompatibility of hatred with the Christian life. In 1 John 3:15, he writes, "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that eternal life does not reside in a murderer." This stark warning underscores the severity with which hatred is viewed in the Christian faith. Consequences of Hatred Hatred not only affects the individual harboring it but also those around them. It can lead to a cycle of bitterness and retaliation, as seen in the account of Absalom and Amnon in 2 Samuel 13. Absalom's hatred for his brother Amnon, following the latter's grievous sin against their sister Tamar, ultimately led to murder and further turmoil within King David's family. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Galatians, lists hatred among the "acts of the flesh" that are contrary to the Spirit (Galatians 5:19-21). He warns that those who live in such a manner "will not inherit the kingdom of God," highlighting the spiritual peril of allowing hatred to take root in one's life. The Antidote to Hatred The Bible consistently presents love as the antidote to hatred. Jesus commands His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). This radical call to love is further emphasized in Romans 12:20-21, where Paul instructs believers, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." In summary, the biblical perspective on hatred is clear: it is a destructive force that embitters life and stands in opposition to the love and grace that God desires for His people. Through the teachings of Scripture, believers are called to reject hatred and embrace love, thereby reflecting the character of Christ in their lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 15:17Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. The Martyrdom of Stephen. Preface. Resources Does God hate? If God is love, how can He hate? | GotQuestions.orgHow does love cover all wrongs (Proverbs 10:12)? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He instructed us to hate our father and mother (Luke 14:26)? | GotQuestions.org Hatred: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hatred to Christ is on Account of his Testimony Against the World Hatred to Christ is Without Cause Hatred to Christ: Chief Priests Hatred to Christ: Involves: Hatred to his Father Hatred to Christ: Involves: Hatred to his People Hatred to Christ: No Escape for Those Who Persevere In Hatred to Christ: Punishment of Hatred: Against Iniquity, Justified Hatred: Inconsistent With: Liars Prone To Hatred: Inconsistent With: The Knowledge of God Hatred: Inconsistent With: The Love of God Hatred: Often Cloaked by Deceit Hatred: Saints should Give No Cause For Hatred: Saints should not Marvel At Hatred: Saints should not Rejoice in the Calamities of Those Who Exhibit Hatred: Saints should Return Good For Hatred: Scriptures Relating To Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards Each Other Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards God Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards Saints Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Backsliding Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Evil Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: False Ways Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Hatred and Opposition to God Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Lying Related Terms |
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